Ireland is struggling with problems with their water systems, which has numerous leaks. Though the water itself is of high quality, there is trouble with accessibility. Both population growth and climate change pose a challenge to said water system, which has been largely unchanged for over a century. A drought in Dublin last year emphasizes the challenges the country will continue to face if action is not taken. Various options to tackle the problem are being considered, including looking into new sources of water.

Key Takeaways:

• Last year’s drought was fortunately not revisited in the Irish summer of 2019. Nonetheless, Ireland’s rainy season has not put an end to the country’s water problem.
• The public utility has devised what many consider a costly and controversial solution, that is pumping water from the River Shannon.
• The dubiously regarded solution comes with a monumental price tag of more than 1.3 billion.

“And if Irish Water has its way, by prioritising other investment, an exceptional level of leaks compared to any modern European city will continue for many years.”

Read more: https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/leaking-pipes-and-a-grand-plan-ireland-s-simmering-water-crisis-1.3956382